Interfering Factors

Minimize test outcome deviations by following proper test protocols. Make certain the patient and their significant others know what should occur and what is expected of them. Written instructions are very helpful to remind patients of expectations.

Reasons for deviations may include the following:

1. Incorrect specimen collection, handling, storage, or labeling

2. Wrong preservative or lack of preservative

3. Delayed specimen delivery resulting in old or deteriorating specimens

4. Incorrect or incomplete patient preparation

5. Hemolyzed blood samples

6. Incomplete sample collection, especially of timed samples

Patient factors that can alter test results may include the following:

1. Incorrect pretest diet

2. Current drug therapy

3. Type of illness

4. Dehydration

5. Position or activity at time of specimen collection

6. Postprandial status

7. Time of day

8. Pregnancy

9. Level of patient knowledge and understanding of and cooperation with the testing process

10. Stress

11. Nonadherence or noncompliance with instructions and pretest preparation

12. Undisclosed drug or alcohol use

13. Age and gender

Subtopic(s):

• Communication
• Testing Protocols
• Avoidance of Errors
• Patient Independence
• Ethics and the Law
• Patient’s Bill of Rights and Patient Responsibilities
• Cultural Sensitivity